Atlantic City, long known for its iconic boardwalk, lively casinos, and beachfront entertainment, is embracing a new economic wave—cannabis tourism. As New Jersey continues to expand its adult-use cannabis market, Atlantic City is positioning itself as a premier destination for cannabis enthusiasts. With dispensaries, cannabis-friendly hotels, and industry events emerging in the city, local officials and entrepreneurs see cannabis tourism as a critical driver of economic growth.
A New Chapter for Atlantic City
For decades, Atlantic City has faced economic fluctuations, heavily relying on the success of its casino industry. While the gambling sector remains central to the city’s identity, state lawmakers and business leaders have been actively seeking ways to diversify revenue streams. The legalization of recreational cannabis in New Jersey in 2021 provided a unique opportunity, and Atlantic City has quickly adapted to capitalize on the burgeoning industry.
“We want Atlantic City to be a top destination for cannabis tourism,” said Mayor Marty Small Sr. in a recent press conference. “From dispensaries to consumption lounges and cannabis-friendly events, we’re making sure the city is at the forefront of this movement.”
Booming Dispensary Scene
New Jersey’s Cannabis Regulatory Commission (CRC) has approved several dispensaries to operate in Atlantic City, with more on the way. Major players in the cannabis retail industry, including The Botanist, MPX NJ, and The Healing Side, have opened locations, catering to both residents and tourists.
One of the biggest draws is The High Rollers Dispensary, located just steps from the boardwalk. It offers a luxury shopping experience, featuring premium cannabis products and concierge services tailored for visitors. “We’re seeing an influx of tourists who specifically come here for the cannabis experience,” said the dispensary’s general manager, Lisa Corbin. “Atlantic City is evolving, and cannabis is playing a major role in that transformation.”
Cannabis Lounges and Hospitality
Unlike other major cannabis-friendly destinations like Las Vegas and Denver, Atlantic City is looking to integrate consumption lounges into its hospitality sector. New Jersey law allows for designated consumption areas, and developers are working on cannabis-friendly lounges that would provide a social atmosphere for tourists to enjoy their products legally and comfortably.
Additionally, cannabis-friendly hotels and Airbnbs are beginning to pop up across the city. The Claridge Hotel, a historic landmark, has announced plans to introduce cannabis-friendly accommodations, allowing guests to consume cannabis in designated areas.
“We recognize that cannabis tourism is the next big thing, and we want to be at the forefront,” said a spokesperson for The Claridge. “It’s all about creating a unique and legal experience for our guests.”
Learn more: New Jersey Opens Applications for Cannabis Consumption Lounges: What It Means for Businesses and Consumers
Cannabis Events and Industry Growth
Atlantic City has already begun attracting large-scale cannabis events, with the New Jersey Cannabis Convention (NECANN) becoming a staple on the city’s events calendar. These conventions bring industry leaders, advocates, and entrepreneurs together while also drawing thousands of attendees looking to learn about the latest cannabis trends.
Furthermore, city officials are discussing the possibility of cannabis-friendly entertainment events, such as beach festivals and private consumption gatherings, to further drive tourism.
The Economic Impact
The economic potential of cannabis tourism in Atlantic City is substantial. According to a report from BDSA, a cannabis market research firm, New Jersey’s legal cannabis market is projected to generate over $2 billion annually by 2026, with a significant portion attributed to tourism.
Local businesses, from restaurants to nightlife venues, are seeing increased foot traffic thanks to cannabis visitors. “Tourists who come for cannabis don’t just stop at dispensaries—they eat at restaurants, go to bars, and enjoy everything else Atlantic City has to offer,” said Tom Gilbert, a local business owner.
Challenges and the Road Ahead
Despite the rapid growth, Atlantic City still faces regulatory hurdles. The state has strict consumption laws, making it illegal to consume cannabis in public places, casinos, and non-designated areas. This has led to concerns over enforcement and the need for more cannabis-friendly spaces.
Additionally, some local officials worry about maintaining a balance between cannabis tourism and the city’s family-friendly attractions. “We want to make sure that we’re welcoming to all visitors while also tapping into the cannabis industry in a responsible way,” said a city council member.
A Bright Future for Cannabis Tourism
Atlantic City’s efforts to embrace the cannabis industry are reshaping its future, drawing in a new demographic of visitors and revitalizing its tourism economy. With expanding cannabis-friendly businesses, hospitality ventures, and industry events, the city is well on its way to becoming a premier East Coast destination for cannabis enthusiasts.
As the industry continues to evolve, Atlantic City has the potential to set a national precedent for cannabis tourism, proving that a city historically built on gaming and entertainment can successfully integrate this new economic driver into its identity.